The Dayton City Council issued a Declaration of Disaster for Public Health Emergency on March 16 that prohibits the social community gathering of 10 people or more until rescinded by Council. This applies to churches, weddings, religious services or activities, concerts, funerals, fundraisers and other similar gatherings. There are currently no confirmed cases of the virus in Dayton, however, the declaration has been issued to assist the City in its efforts to prevent, and if necessary, contain COVID-19 from spreading throughout the City. The declaration also authorizes the City Manager to suspend late fees on utility bills and echos the White Houses’ other recommendations of schooling at home where possible, avoidance of discretionary travel, and eating or drinking at bars, restaurants or food courts.

Although the City’s declaration does not include an order to close common dining areas open to the public during the effective period of this declaration, the State of Texas and Liberty County have both issued Executive Orders that restrict restaurants to delivery or carryout, and require them to close their dining rooms to limit exposure between individuals. Also included in the order is the closing of bars, gyms, and schools statewide. These Orders are in effect in Dayton.

All events and activities at the Community Center (including the Jones Public Library and the Senior Center) have been canceled, and we are continuing to aggressively share information on the virus from trusted public health agencies.

CDC Information:

Patients diagnosed with COVID-19 report mild to severe respiratory illness. Symptoms of COVID-19 may show up 2-14 days after exposure and may include fever, cough, and shortness of breath.

General population: If you are in generally good health and have a mild illness, stay home, and take care of yourself like you would for the flu. If symptoms worsen, call your doctor.

At-Risk Populations: If you are 65 years or older and/or have other medical problems like heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, high blood pressure or cancer – and have fever or symptoms – call your doctor. If you are not sick enough to be hospitalized, you can recover at home. Follow your physician’s instructions or refer to CDC guidance on how to take care of yourself at home. Follow CDC instructions for how to take care of yourself at home.

Your doctor will help make the decision whether you should get tested for coronavirus and give you information on when and where to get tested.